The first Thursday of every month they have a daytime caregiver support group at the First Presbyterian Church at 2898 Jefferson St. in Marianna. The day support group meets from 10am to 12pm on the first Thursday of every month and the evening support group meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 4:30pm to 5:30pm. This is a time to get to know your fellow caregivers and to share and learn from them. They exchange ideas and resources. This group addresses any form of caregiving and is open to all. For more information about this group please contact Chris at 850-557-9405.
The dictionary definition of caregiver is a family member or paid helper who regularly looks after a child or a sick, elderly, or disabled person. The legal definition is someone, typically over age 18, who provides care for another. It may be a person who is responsible for the direct care, protection, and supervision of children in a child care home, or someone who tends to the needs of the elderly or disabled. A caregiver has many jobs and does everything for the one they are caring for. From making doctor appointments, to bathing and feeding them. While caring for a loved one can be very rewarding it also involves many stressors. Caregiver burnout is very real. It is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. Burnout can occur when caregivers don’t get the help they need, or if they try to do more than they are able, physically or financially. Here are a few simple ways to care for caregivers: ~Laugh about something everyday. ~Eat a well-balanced diet. ~Talk with someone every day. ~Give yourself persmission to cry. ~Excercise. ~Get adequate rest.
“There are only four types of people in this world. Those who have been caregivers. Those who are currently caregivers. Those who will be caregivers, and those who will need a caregiver.” ~Rosalyn Carter.
